Cabbage Rose Rosa x centifolia

Provence rose is a perennial, broadleaf evergreen shrub in the rose family (Rosaceae) and has an upright, arching, twiggy habit that grows 4 to 5 feet tall and 2 to 4 feet wide. It is a hybrid Centifolia rose thought to have been developed by Dutch breeders several hundred years ago. It is a hybrid involving R. canina, R. gallica and R. moschata. Several cultivars have been developed based on mutations. The hybrid epithet is Latin for “one hundred leaves [petals]” and refers to the flower form. Centifolias are also known as cabbage roses.

Provence rose prefers full sun and well-drained, moist soil, but it will tolerate some shade and sandy, loamy or clay soils. It produces a few suckers if grown on its own rootstock and hybridizes freely with other roses. Propagate by division during dormancy or by seed or stem cutting. Prune after flowering to remove dead or diseased canes. In late winter, it can be lightly pruned to reduce size.

The fragrant pink or lavender flowers blossom in early summer. The flowers are large, globular and very fragrant. Large leathery leaves adorn stems with many prickles. It is primarily grown for the perfume industry and may be hard to find. Cultivars may be more readily available.

This ornamental shrub can be grown in the landscape as a low hedge, border or accent plant. It can also grow well in tubs and would be suitable in a cottage or English garden. 

Insects, Diseases and Other Plant Problems: Plants in the Rosa genus are susceptible to honey fungus, black spot, powdery mildew, stem canker and dieback. Insect pests include aphids, Japanese beetles, thrips, rose scale, rose leafhopper, rose slugs, leafcutting bees, caterpillars and grasshoppers. Garlic planted nearby can help protect the plant from disease and insects. Deer will browse roses. The Clemson Cooperative Extension Home and Garden Information Center has fact sheets on growing roses, including R. centifolia, and on common diseases and common pests.

VIDEO Created by Elizabeth Meyer for "Trees, Shrubs and Conifers," a plant identification course developed in partnership with Longwood Gardens.

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